The Brathay Trust

It was back in 2007 when I ran the Brathay Windermere Marathon for the first time that I first came across the charity called the Brathay Trust. They arrange this event to raise funds for their charity and it is their biggest annual fundraiser. They operate from the beautiful Brathay Hall in an idyllic setting over looking Lake Windermere near Ambleside. Over the years I keep going back as I have come to love the place, the people and I’m touched by the work they do with young people.

Brathay’s work with Children & Young People Children and Young People’s Services The experiences Brathay create inspire children and young people to make positive changes that will last a lifetime. Brathay work with over 6000 young people every year, close to their homes or on immersive residentials at their Hall in the Lake District. By focusing on the skills, attitudes and behaviours that young people need to develop their potential, their employability and their resilience, Brathay empower them to make active choices that will benefit them, and the people around them. Brathay support young people and their families to overcome any barriers they face when finding a path into education, training or employment. Brathay work with schools and colleges to bring young people’s studies alive with real-world skills; underpinning their learning with the attitudes and behaviours they will need when making the move into the workplace.

Brathay support “At Risk Groups” of young people and families who have more specific needs: those who are at risk of being, or are already, involved in the criminal justice system; or those who are sexually exploited, alcohol and substance misusers, self-harmers, young carers, or looking after young people. Brathay provide these families and young people with the time, space and support they need to develop self-awareness, skills, and confidence; giving them the strength to make positive choices, take control of their lives and assert their rights.

Brathay “Support Social Action” by working with young people and families to identify the services they need to improve their lives and bring their communities together, while building relevant skills to advance their long-term prospects. Brathay support young people as they take on roles as National Citizen Service volunteers or Aspiring Leaders – building their capabilities and helping improve the lives of those around them.